Ah June… Just the right balance of sunshine and cool refreshing breeze in the mid-year month where days are long and evenings are kissed with that perfect golden glow. June Weddings are absolutely stunning, and we have the most gorgeous selection of sneak peeks from M&T’s Special day to show you why.
Read moreAre You Ready For The Most Astrologically Powerful Day Of 2022?
As much as we love the natural world around us at Happy Valley Norfolk, we also absolutely love everything about our universe and astrology, because it has such an impact on our lives on Earth. Every year on the 8th of August, the sun in Leo, the star Sirius, Orion's Belt, and the Earth all align to form what is widely known as The Lion’s Gate Portal. It's a hugely significant astrological phenomenon that provides an opportunity to manifest more abundance than you could ever imagine. Are you curious to learn more about what this means for you? Here's an insight into the Lion's Gate portal and how to use its powerful energy.
The Power Of The Number 8
In numerology and astrology, the number 8 is a powerhouse. It stands out most in terms of the houses and signs of the zodiac and it acts as a bridge between the material and spiritual realms. There is no wonder why the 8th day of the 8th month is so super powerful. The date opens up an enchanting spiritual window for all zodiac signs to set intentions, embrace abundance, and create new beginnings. Just imagine all you’ve been manifesting put under a magnifying glass by the universe… prepare yourself for a bit of a blastoff. So what could you do to make the most of it?
Lean Into Your Inner Leo (Whatever Your Sign May Be)
This fire-ruled sign is known for confidence and courage just like a lion. Leo season allows us to feed our passions, live loudly and unapologetically, and fan the flame of our desires. It's also the season of celebration, so do things that make you feel your best and celebrate yourself! Whether in self-care, dancing around, meditating or exercising; whatever makes you feel good about yourself, do it! In order for you to get the most out of this divine time, feeling good and letting go of your doubts are key.
Remind Yourself You Deserve Your Desires & Let Go Of Your Doubts
A massive factor in manifesting and spiritual growth is having faith in yourself and having faith in what is on its way to you. We all deserve abundance and the universe is brimming with it for absolutely everyone, it just needs you to open your door and welcome that abundance into your life. For you to get the most out of this divine time, feeling good and letting go of your doubts are key. Because when we feel good, we let out high vibrational vibes and guess what - the universe returns us with more situations to feel great about and during The Lions Gate Portal - those vibes are multiplied even more so.
Set The Bar High For Your Intentions & Prepare For Big Shifts
Sirius is well known for being the brightest star in the night sky (twice the size of our sun) and is considered to be the sun of the spiritual world. It will be at its most powerful this Monday, with its highest vibrational energy pushing on our manifestations, awakenings and growth. Take a moment alone when you are relaxed to write down your manifestations; I like to do this after a relaxing bath or a long walk, so that I have refreshed mindset. As you jot down your desires for what you want to bring into your life, try to visualise them. Visualisation can be a great tool to get over your manifesting blocks and can help us focus on positive things. What is your reaction when your intention manifests? With Leo's sun amplifying our passionate side and Sirius representing wealth and abundance, now is the time to dream BIG. Set your intentions high and prepare for some absolute magic in your life.
Practice Your Gratitude
Lastly but certainly still one of the most important; be filled with gratitude. Even if it’s the smallest thing you can find each day to be grateful for, focus on that feeling of appreciation and it will grow daily. The more we are thankful for the more the universe will give us to be thankful for. This practice is fantastic for our mental and physical health, it can also help us sleep better and improve our self-esteem. Do the things that make you happy to help your heart open and expand to a world of possibilities.
There is never a wrong time to practise appreciation, lean into love or focus on anything you want to manifest. However, in the instance of the August 8 Lion's Gate portal, it's possible that your endeavours may be enhanced beyond your wildest expectations.
At Happy Valley Norfolk we love to welcome those into our whimsical woodland looking for a space for yoga retreats, forest bathing and spiritual groups. The woodland is full of energy throughout the year whatever the season may be, each brings its own divine forces, moon phases and uniqueness. To get in touch please email us via the contact information on this website.
Our whimsical woodland and Willow Island are a dreamland, for harnessing the powers of the Earth and the universe
Something wonderful and magical is about to happen - are you ready?
Manifesting and cleansing our crystals with the power of nature at Happy Valley
5 Reasons To Take A Family Glamping Trip This August
Whether it was a single trip as a child or regular weekend getaways, chances are you've been camping at least once. But have you ever thought about or tried glamping? The opportunity to spend time in nature is frequently the most compelling reason to choose a glamping getaway. With so much technology in our lives, from smartphones to smart homes, many travellers are choosing to reconnect with nature and escape the chaos of modern-day life. Whether a totally new experience for everyone or a chance to rekindle those childhood memories with your loved ones, here are our top five reason’s to love glamping this August.
It’s The Best Of Both Worlds
Because glamping is derived from camping, it means that you get all the best parts - but way less stress and way more luxuries. At Happy Valley, we have real beds, home comforts, fire pits and hot tubs… all are set in the heart of 9 acres of woodland to explore. With fire pits for marshmallow toasting, barbecuing and storytelling around the fire in the evenings, you still get to grab the best parts of a fun camping trip, just with the added luxuries.
It’s An Affordable Family Break Away
It’s so easy to plan a last-minute glamping trip with your family, without the stress of flights, passports and all the extra added stress (and costs) that jetting abroad brings. Staycations offer you a viable alternative to travelling abroad with less travel time, reduced travel fees and often cheaper activities whilst you are there. In Norfolk this season, there is lots going on from carnivals and festivals to family attractions such as BeWilderwood, Sandringham Estate and exploring the Norfolk coastline.
Make New Memories & Traditions
Just like we all have birthday or Christmas traditions for example, why not start a glamping tradition with your kids this summer? It will be something that the whole family can enjoy, you can explore new areas and it will be something that they will remember for life. It’s also fabulous for a couple of families looking to get away and enjoy a new experience together, so you can all stay in the same place and share all of the fun.
A Natural Experience
There is no comparison between staying in a resort or hotel and experiencing nature in the wild. Being in the great outdoors provides us with a sense of freedom that other vacations do not provide. It can also make us truly appreciate the natural world we live in and make us think more consciously about how to be more sustainable when we get home. This is also a great learning curve for your children, implementing an eco-friendly mindset from an early age.
Recharge Everyone’s Batteries Before Autumn
Taking yourself off the grid is a great way to rejuvenate yourself before the school holidays end. Nature is good for your emotional, physical, and spiritual batteries. It offers a sense of calm and peace. In these moments, you become conscious and gain a new perspective on whatever is going on in your life. You’ll return home with a fresh headspace and feel revived from your trip away. As we love to say; disconnect to reconnect, and being in nature with your family is the perfect place to do so.
To book your last-minute getaway, click the ‘Glamping” tab at the top of our website. We also now have our books open for bookings from September - early January 2023.
Toad Hall - Only available for one 3 night stay this month Monday 29th August - Thursday 1st September
Explore the wildlife and the woodland at Happy Valley Norfolk
Our gorgeous Keepers Cabin nestled in the pine trees
A Summers Escape For Couples
Norfolk is a fantastic place to get the first taste of summer, and it's even better for couples at this time of year. June and July make great months for romantic getaways because it’s the time of year you can escape before school holidays and before a season of social events go into full swing. In this tranquillity, you can disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with each other. Happy Valley Norfolk could be your answer for a unique first getaway for you and your loved one or a spontaneous change from jetting abroad for those looking for something different. Premarital couples can strengthen their foundation as they prepare for marriage, and long-term couples take their relationship to the next level - all with the help of a little nature.
Our gorgeous bell tents are now available to book. Great for couples looking for a luxe glamping experience in a whimsical woodland.
The great thing about nature is that it’s more than what meets the eye, especially when it comes to couples. By unplugging ourselves from our daily lifestyles, stresses and technology and immersing ourselves in nature, we have precious time to focus one on one - mind, body, and spirit. No distractions, just peace, bonding and strengthening. Studies have shown over the years that time spent in nature reduces anxiety, blood flow improves and also your mood improves. This being said, it’s not only good for bringing us closer it’s also vital for our health. It's almost magical how a couple can become closer and enjoy each other's company more with a little help from Mother Nature.
Woodland and wildlife greet you just outside each cabin and bell tent door. Three of our cabins also have their own private luxury hot tubs, making your stay at our retreat even more special. We are set in 9 acres of woodland and there are an extra 200 acres of woodland adjoining Happy Valley, meaning that there is plenty to explore with your partner without even leaving our retreat. In addition to all of our romantic getaway guests, we have witnessed so many gorgeous marital proposals and woodland weddings throughout the years. We are truly blessed with a retreat constantly filled with love. To book your romantic getaway at Happy Valley Norfolk, head over to the “Glamping” section of our website.
How You Can Be A Wardrobe Warrior & Help Save Our Planet
Did you know that the fashion industry and production make up around 10% of humanity's carbon emissions? Sustainable fashion refers to clothing and textiles that have been created in a way that is mindful of the vast environmental issues the fashion industry touches on. The good news is, by working together we can lower these effects, by making simple changes to the way we shop and what we wear.
You don't need to throw everything out of your wardrobe and replace it with a full sustainable line. It isn't as difficult as you may think to get started on a sustainable wardrobe and it's worth it for the future of our planet. Here are some key factors we can be mindful of is;
Take care of your clothes and the world at the same time - By buying higher quality items, our brains automatically want to look after them better. Buying less but better quality is much better than buying hauls of cheap items. With the warmer and sunnier days, we can hang washing out instead of tumbler drying, this will prolong the life of your clothes and reduce energy usage from indoors. At Happy Valley, we also love to use the brand Ecover in our laundry room. This is an eco-friendly cleaning brand, made from plant and mineral-based ingredients.
If you can choose a more ethical brand, why not try it? - When buying online apart from looking at reviews, do you ever really take note about where those clothes are made? What are the working conditions like? Is it a brand hoping for a more sustainable future or are they just greenwashing?
What to do with them when we no longer want them? - Instead of a trip to the bin, how about a trip to the local charity shop? And who knows while your there what you may find for yourself! Personally I love charity shops, I have found so many great items in them and lots of things that were new or nearly new, even designer items.
Trans-seasonal items are the way forward- The problem isn’t exactly fast fashion, it’s also down to how much your going to use that item. When shopping think about how much use you will get out of it. Instead of shelling out on the latest trends, opt for timeless pieces that can work in any season.
In the current climate of the world, more and more brands are recognising the importance of looking after our environment. Luxury brand Chloé plans on increasing its lower impact materials and fair trade sourcing across all categories by 2025. In their 2021 AW collection, more than 80% of the collection's cashmere yarn was recycled and over 50% of silk was derived from organic agriculture.
We at Happy Valley love educating ourselves on ways to be more environmentally friendly because there is always something new to learn and something we can improve on. We also like to influence our guests and social media followers with useful tips, so if you have any, please share them in the comments section below.
Days Out In Norfolk That Won't Break The Bank
The warmer weather is right on our doorstep and as much as it can be wonderful to spend some extra time with your loved ones, it can also feel stressful trying to plan things to do. Not to fear, because we have put together a list of budget family days out in Norfolk, that will help you keep the full family entertained and make some marvellous memories, whilst sticking to a budget. We are so lucky to be so rich in history, nature and culture and lots of it are free to visit. For nature lovers, there are miles upon miles of beaches, woodland and wildlife sites. The county is bursting with things to do, that you won’t find in other places.
1) Be A Royal For The Day At Sandringham Estate Walk the woodlands - Free / Sandringham House & Gardens - £13 just for the Gardens or £23 for both
The Queen's Country Retreat and the Royal Family’s only private home and estate in England. “Explore Sandringham Royal Parkland this spring, by foot or by bike. The 600 acre Royal Park has two way-marked trails winding through woodlands & parkland with further unmarked paths for you to explore.” Alongside the vast woodland and grounds to explore, there is also The Sandringham House and gardens to soak up some history in. Take a break at in the courtyard for some refreshments and browse the estates favourite produce in the gift shop. A great event coming up is Sandringham’s Food, Craft, and Wood Festival which will be taking place on April 30th, 1st & 2nd of May.
2) Explore The Unknown With Norfolk Hidden Gems From just £22 for the whole group
“As you travel you earn points by visiting destinations, solving clues & completing challenges. The Travel League lets you compete with fellow explorers! Each season win amazing prizes & become the UK’s Greatest Explorer!” Norfolk Hidden Gems is a self-guided tour and treasure hunt travel experience and all you need is a mobile phone, to use the smartphone travel tool. You can explore over 100 destinations and challenges, avoid the crowds and it’s flexible to start at anytime. Just pack your sense of adventure and get ready to discover hidden gems & incredible places you may never find alone.
3) Visit The South Asia Collection For A Dose Of History & Culture Admission - Free
If you like a dash of city life and love discovering culture, in the heart of Norfolk the city of Norwich, there is plenty to do and see for free such as visiting The South Asia Collection. Housed in a restored Victorian roller skating rink in the centre of Norwich, just a short walk from the market place. “A Grade II listed architectural gem, with a dramatic arched wooden roof, the Old Skating Rink was first opened on the 19th September 1876. Over a hundred years later in 1993 Philip and Jeannie Millward, the founders of The South Asia Collection, purchased the building and embarked on a major refurbishment. Today, exhibition displays and large carved architectural pieces from South Asia can be seen beside the galleries where admiring Victorians once looked out across the skaters beneath the impressive arched roof.”
4) The Norfolk Coastline Free To Explore
There's plenty to see and do along Norfolk's 90-mile coastline, from beautiful beaches with salt marshes to shingle spits, fine sand and estuaries. There are tons of coastal villages and towns to visit including Sheringham which is well-known for its beautiful beaches and cliffs, Wells-Next-The-Sea where families enjoy crabbing and multiple events during the year and of course, Heacham and Hunstanton, which are practically on our doorstep.
We are very fortunate to be located near a variety of activities to do and places to visit for free. We have the highest concentration of mediaeval churches in the world, with 659. North Norfolk is one of the few sites in the UK where you can view the northern lights, and the vast beach at Holkham and Wells-next-the-Sea is routinely rated the best beach in the country.
To book your stay at Happy Valley for a truly unique glamping experience, click on the “Glamping” tab at the top of this website.
A Lovely Review For Our Woodpecker Tree Temple
“A beautiful place to stay. So cosy and relaxing. We had lashing rain when we arrived and then bright sun the day after, and The Woodpecker was a lovely place to stay for both. If the weather is rubbish then cosy up with a book and get the wood burner going, and if you get sun then head out on one of the local walks or heat up the hot tub and enjoy the beautiful view. Thank you for a lovely couple of days. We loved staying in The Woodpecker and hope to come back again.”
A huge thank you to Nicola for staying with us and leaving us such a lovely review! Woodpecker is a great cabin for a family of four looking for a woodland escape or even a couple wanting a luxury glamping experience. With a wood fired hot tub to soak the day away in and a sumptuous kingsize bed, you can leave Happy Valley feeling relaxed and refreshed.
Enjoy relaxing in the heart of nature in the wood fired hot tub. To view our other cabins with hot tubs included, click the glamping tab at the top of the page.
The Woodpecker Tree Temple in all it’s woodland glory.
Bring your walking boots and reap the benefits of all the great local area to explore. Picture here is our Willow Island, a renowned wedding ceremony spot.
To book your stay in The Woodpecker Tree Temple or to view what else we have to offer, head over to the glamping section of our website.
What's On In Norfolk This Easter
For the first time in a few years, we can finally have a restriction-free Easter break! We are so looking forward to welcoming our guests this Spring to our woodland retreat, for a well-needed staycation.
Sunnier days have arrived and Norfolk is fantastic for adventures. Sandringham is just a short drive away with plenty of woodland to explore and The Sandringham Estate to soak up some history and grab a tasty treat from The Courtyard. You don’t even need to leave Happy Valley Norfolk, our retreat joins 200 acres of woodland of Congham Heath. Enjoy some blissful relaxation in the hot tub under the stars at night, after a day of trekking in the wild.
The county is bursting with things to do and events this season, right on our doorstep. Join The Pesky Bunnies Easter Eggs-pedition at Bewilderwood (2nd-19th April) where your little ones will enjoy meeting the Easter bunny on the Storytelling Stage, face painting and hunting for eggs on the Puzzling Park Trail.
For a taste of Medieval Britain, the Vikings return to Sheringham on Saturday 9th April for The Viking Festival and Parade. With battles on the beach, Viking cooking and axe throwing, this will make a great family day out.
Moving into May, we will see many returning events such The Crab and Lobster Festival, bringing together Cromer & Sheringham to celebrate the world-famous seafood they produce. Across two days there will be a host of great things to participate in, including heritage demonstrations and street markets packed with local produce. Live music will be performed day and night, fantastic street performers, seafaring crafts and children’s activities.
We have some fantastic glamping cabins available this Easter Half Term, just waiting for you to complete them! Our “Tawny Hut” will also be reopening alongside its sistering Shepard’s hut “Denver Rest”, a great duo for a family of four, looking for an escape into nature. To see our full list of cabins and our availability, head over to the glamping section of this website.
To view the array of events on in Norfolk this Easter, we highly recommend visiting https://www.visitnorfolk.co.uk/whats-on
For a taste of Medieval Britain, the Vikings return to Sheringham on Saturday 9th April for The Viking Festival and Parade.
Join The Pesky Bunnies Easter Eggs-pedition at Bewilderwood for some Easter fun
Enjoy a coastal family day out at The Crab and Lobster Festival
5 Ways To Welcome Spring Into Your Home
Finally, we are in March which means one thing - first day of Spring is this month! We are on the cusp of nature being reborn, with all its glorious blooms and greenery. The sunshine is that little bit warmer, the days get longer and we get to do all those things we have waited so long for. Spring makes us feel inspired and invigorated, so there is no wonder that we all feel so excited. Now is a great time to put those feelings into action and get our homes ready to welcome in the season.
1.) Have a big spring clean
Make room for all that’s new and have a good old traditional spring clean, to get us motivated and organised. Cleaning doesn’t need to be boring at all, open those windows for some fresh air and put on your favourite playlist. You can make a checklist, get the family involved in a friendly competition and even set rewards for the evening when it’s all done.
2.) Freshen up your style
Whether home or wardrobe, the wait is over for re-introducing those gorgeous floral prints and brighter colours. We are seeing the very fashionable olive green this winter being replaced with lime greens already, from the catwalk to home decor. Spiritually, this colour signifies creativity and luck, making it a great colour for this spring.
3.) Bring on the botanics
Speaking of green hues, it’s possibly the best time of the year for gardening. Now is a good time to get your shrubs pruned and the garden cleaned, ready for planting for when Spring officially arrives. If you are looking to bring Mother Nature indoors, peace lilies and orchids are both beautiful, low maintenance additions, that will bring to your home.
4.) Switch up the scents
Those wondrous musky toned candles were perfect for the winter months, but now it’s time to invigorate the senses with fresh florals and zesty fragrances. Did you know that a fresh cut lemon placed next to your bed has been proven to help improve your stress levels, air quality and sleep? And all while making your room smell deliciously clean.
5.) Bring life back to meal times
After months of hearty meals and hot beverages, Springtide welcomes back its tasty seasonal ingredients like asparagus, courgettes and radishes. We love the sound of the mouthwatering recipe we’ve found ‘One Pan Salmon with Roast Asparagus” and can’t wait to try it out. What are your favourite meals in Spring? Let us know down below in the comments.
"The views are out of this world" A fantastic review for Toad Hall
We are so grateful for this review that came in from our recent guests Carmen & Ben.
“Where do i start! What an amazing place! My fiancé and I just got home from a well needed couple of days away for some pure relaxation and this is the place! If you are pondering on whether to book, ponder no more! Do it! You won’t regret it! beautiful surroundings, definitely recommend the 200 acre wood trail, such a beautiful walk and if you keep going it takes you to a lovely little village. Toad Hall was immaculate, beds and pillows sooo comfy we had the best nights sleep. The views are out of this world, everywhere you look when inside the lodge you are greeted with a stunning view, even in the shower! If you are looking for silence, peace and tranquility this is the place. Nothing beats drinking your morning coffee whilst gazing out of a window with endless trees and views, We are already looking online to book for summer but unfortunately it’s all booked up. The communication was five star with Katy, prompt replies and we even had a box of choccies left on arrival. Thankyou :) A lovely little perk of this stay, if you are unorganised like me, was the kitchen amenities, oil, herbs and spices and everything you would need to cook with, also a lovely array of books and games, perfect for a cozy night in whilst watching the sunset through the main window. It really was a breath taking experience. I cannot fault toad hall in any way I only wish we could book again now for the summer! :( The hot tub was all up to temperature and ready to go as soon as we arrived, was very easy to use and hot tubbing surrounded by trees was a whole new experience for us! It was wonderful! We used it so many times. We went in February 2022 and the temperature in the lodge was so lovely and warm and comfortable. Thank you Katy for making it such a memorable stay Carmen and Ben X”